FTMO

FTMO is one of the most recognized names in proprietary trading, known for its structured challenges, trader-friendly payout system, and professional-grade analytics. Traders can earn up to 90% profit split, with bi-weekly payouts that are fast and reliable. FTMO also offers a scaling plan that rewards consistent performance by gradually increasing account size and payout potential, ideal for traders who treat their strategy like a business.

Ngan Pham avatar Written by Ngan Pham
Updated:
Country
Czech Republic (Prague)
Trust Pilot
4.8/5
Date Created
2015
Years in Operation
10 years

FTMO Summary

💳 Audition Fees €155 - €1 080
đŸ’± Account Types Normal, and Swing Trader
💰 Profit Split 80% – 90%
đŸ’” Account Size $10K – $200K
📊 Trading Platforms MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade
đŸ›ïž Markets Offered Forex, commodities, indices, stocks, cryptocurrencies
FTMO Logo

I still remember the first time I came across FTMO. Back then, I had blown two demo accounts, felt overwhelmed by risk rules, and honestly questioned whether prop trading was for me. But when I found FTMO, something clicked. The structure was clear, the metrics were precise, and for once, I felt like I had a fair shot if I treated it seriously. 

In this FTMO review, I’ll walk you through everything I wish I had known earlier: from the challenge process and pricing to the tools, payout system, and real-life experience as a funded trader. If you're serious about trading and want a structured, transparent path to getting funded, FTMO is worth your attention.

1. Our Take on FTMO

FTMO is one of the most reputable names in prop trading, and after going through their evaluation and funded process myself, I can say it’s built for traders who take the craft seriously.

FTMO uses a two-phase evaluation model: the Challenge and the Verification. The rules include profit targets, daily loss limits, and minimum trading days. While this may feel strict at first, it encourages consistency and risk control, skills every serious trader needs. The entry fee starts from €155, which is competitive given the potential return.

FTMO offers two account types:

  • Normal/Classic: Balanced risk and traditional structure, ideal for most traders.
  • Swing: Designed for traders who hold positions overnight or through weekends, with no time-based restrictions.

Having these options allowed me to choose an account that matched my strategy without compromising on rules. With no strategy restrictions and reliable support, FTMO is a solid choice for traders who treat trading like a profession.

FTMO Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Automatic scaling up to $2M Two-step evaluation process
Up to 90% profit split Minimum trading days required
No lot size restrictions Commissions apply on some instruments
Flexible account types Daily and overall loss limits enforced

OUR RATING

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

82
Challenges 7.0 / 10
Spreads 8.0 / 10
Markets 8.0 / 10
Payouts 8.0 / 10
Platforms 9.0 / 10
Trust 9.0 / 10

2. What is FTMO? Is FTMO legit?

FTMO is a proprietary trading firm based in the Czech Republic that offers traders the opportunity to trade with significant amounts of virtual capital up to $200,000 per account, and even more through scaling. 

The catch? You must prove your trading skills through a two-step evaluation process: the FTMO Challenge and Verification.

FTMO is one of the most reputable names in prop trading
FTMO is one of the most reputable names in prop trading

What makes FTMO stand out is its no-risk funding model. Once you’re funded, you trade using the firm’s capital, not your own money, and you’re never personally liable for trading losses. FTMO covers all downside risk, so if a funded account breaches the rules, it’s simply disabled without touching your personal funds.

In return, traders keep 80% of the profits they generate, and that can increase to 90% after four consecutive profitable payouts. This tiered system rewards consistency and long-term discipline. Unlike some firms that offer high splits but attach unrealistic conditions, FTMO’s profit-sharing structure is transparent and achievable, making it one of the most competitive models for serious, growth-focused traders.

In terms of legitimacy, FTMO has:

  • Been featured in Forbes, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year, and Deloitte’s Fast 50 list
  • Gained excellent ratings on Trustpilot with over 4.8/5 stars based on thousands of reviews (I will show you the details in the following sections)
  • Shared consistent payout proof and company transparency through social channels and blogs

“We believe that a trader should focus on trading, while we take care of the rest.” – FTMO official website

In short, FTMO is absolutely legitimate. While passing the challenge can be difficult, those who succeed often share positive experiences, highlighting fast payouts, professional support, and access to robust trading tools.

When I first heard about FTMO, I was skeptical. The idea of “trading virtual funds and receiving real payouts” sounded too good to be true. But after testing the Free Trial and watching their YouTube payout livestreams, I realized this was a highly transparent and professional setup.

2.1. FTMO’s business model explained

Unlike brokers who profit from spreads, swaps, or client losses, FTMO operates on a performance-aligned model. Their primary revenue comes from one-time evaluation fees, not from your trading losses, meaning their success is tied to yours.

Here’s how it works: you pay a fixed fee starting at €155 to begin the FTMO Challenge. This isn’t a recurring subscription, just a one-off payment that grants access to a structured, rules-based audition. The evaluation is split into two stages:

  1. Challenge Phase: You’re required to reach a predefined profit target (e.g., 10%) within a limited drawdown and over a set number of trading days.
  2. Verification Phase: If you pass the Challenge, the Verification stage confirms your consistency under slightly relaxed conditions, typically with a lower profit target.

Once both phases are passed, you're granted a funded account, where you trade using FTMO's capital. If you generate profits and follow the rules, you keep up to 90%. FTMO, in turn, earns from its share of your profits, not from hidden charges or risky trade setups.

And because your own capital isn’t at risk during the evaluation or funded stages, this setup creates a genuine win-win structure: FTMO only benefits when traders succeed, and traders are incentivized to perform with discipline rather than gamble under pressure.

2.2. FTMO key features

Here are some of the standout features that FTMO provides to traders:

  • Funded accounts start at up to $200,000 and can be automatically scaled to $2 million over time with no re-evaluation required
  • Up to 90% profit split once funded
  • A free trial so you can test the system without risk
  • Access to professional trading tools, including FTMO MetriX, Journal, and News feed
  • No liability for losses
  • A dedicated Performance Coach and trading psychology support
  • Multiple platforms supported: MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade

FTMO’s model not only supports skilled traders but also educates and mentors them along the way. 

According to the FTMO Academy review section on their website, users can access a range of videos and guides on risk management, trading psychology, and technical analysis, further boosting their trading success.

3. The FTMO process

In this FTMO H2T Funding review, I want to walk you through the firm’s evaluation process, a crucial journey every trader must pass before gaining access to funded capital.

To access FTMO’s funded capital, traders must pass a structured evaluation system. The process is divided into four key steps, starting from a free trial and ending with becoming a professional prop trader under Quantlane.

This section breaks down each step, including the FTMO Challenge and Verification, which are the most crucial for those serious about securing a funded account.

3.1. Evaluation process (Demo): FTMO Challenge & Verification stage

The FTMO evaluation consists of two phases: the FTMO Challenge and the Verification stage. This demo-based assessment tests your risk management, consistency, and profitability before granting you access to real payouts.

I went through both phases. The Challenge wasn’t easy; the pressure of staying under the daily loss limit was intense. But FTMO MetriX really helped me manage my emotions better. I also appreciated that they didn’t restrict my trading strategy. I could be myself as a trader.

3.1.1. FTMO Challenge (Step 1)

This is the first and most well-known step in the FTMO review process. Traders must achieve a 10% profit target while adhering to strict risk management rules:

  • Max daily loss: 5%
  • Max total loss: 10%
  • Minimum trading days: 4
  • Time limit: 30 calendar days
  • Fees: Based on account size (e.g., €155 for a $10,000 account, up to €540 for $200,000)

These rules are non-negotiable. For example, if you exceed the daily loss limit even once, you immediately fail the Challenge, regardless of how well you're performing.

This is the first and most well-known step in the FTMO review process
This is the first and most well-known step in the FTMO review process

Example: If you start with a $100,000 account, your max daily loss is $5,000. Even if you're up $3,000, a swing down to -$2,000 would still count as a breach.

However, you are allowed to trade any strategy, any time of day, and most instruments, provided you follow the rules.

FTMO also offers a free trial that mimics these rules (but with halved profit targets), allowing you to practice in a realistic environment.

FTMO challenge review by me: During my first attempt at the Challenge, I failed on Day 3 after hitting the daily loss limit. I wasn’t used to having that kind of strict cap, and it caught me off guard. At the time, it felt frustrating. 

3.1.2. Verification stage (Step 2)

If you pass the FTMO Challenge, you proceed to Verification. This phase confirms that your successful performance wasn’t due to luck alone.

  • Profit target: 5%
  • Max daily loss: 5%
  • Max total loss: 10%
  • Minimum trading days: 4
  • Time limit: No time limit

The same risk rules apply, but the profit target is cut in half. Many traders find this step easier, though it still requires consistency and discipline.

If you pass the FTMO Challenge, you proceed to Verification
If you pass the FTMO Challenge, you proceed to Verification

Once you pass Verification, your account is reviewed. If everything checks out, you’ll receive login credentials for your FTMO Account (monetized demo) within 1–2 business days.

3.2. FTMO account (Monetized Demo): Step 3 - FTMO Trader

After completing both evaluation steps, you become an FTMO Trader. You’ll now manage a simulated account with real money payouts, meaning your trades affect virtual capital, but your profits are real and can be withdrawn.

After completing both evaluation steps, you become an FTMO Trader
After completing both evaluation steps, you become an FTMO Trader
  • Accounts range from $10,000 to $200,000
  • You keep up to 90% of profits, depending on your scaling status
  • You must continue respecting risk limits (same as during Challenge)
  • Profit splits are available monthly, but can also be requested earlier if conditions are met

The FTMO account is structured as a monetized demo, so you’re never liable for losses. If you break a rule, your account is paused or reset, but no real money is lost on your side.

3.3. Quantlane (Pro Trading): Step 4 - Professional Trader

For elite traders who consistently perform well in the FTMO Account, there’s an opportunity to graduate to Quantlane, FTMO’s institutional trading desk.

For elite traders, there’s an opportunity to graduate to Quantlane
For elite traders, there’s an opportunity to graduate to Quantlane

Quantlane offers:

  • A real capital account
  • Access to low-latency infrastructure
  • The ability to scale even further, beyond $2 million
  • One-on-one support and tighter spreads
Note: This step is not advertised publicly on the FTMO homepage, but traders have shared their experience with Quantlane after months of consistent performance.

Joining Quantlane is invitation-only and based on verified long-term performance and adherence to all trading parameters.

Verdict on the FTMO process

FTMO’s process isn’t just about passing a challenge; it’s a structured test of real trading discipline. From my experience, it teaches you to respect risk, stay consistent, and manage pressure like a pro. If you treat it seriously, the journey itself will sharpen your edge and prepare you for long-term funded success.

View more:

4. Funded account types & profit sharing

Once you pass both stages of the evaluation process, FTMO grants you access to a funded trading account, and this is where the real earning potential begins.

The funded account is not a traditional brokerage account but a monetized demo environment. However, the profits you generate are real and paid out according to a generous and transparent profit-sharing model.

4.1. FTMO account types

FTMO offers traders flexibility through two distinct account types: No, and Swing. Each is designed to match different trading styles, risk appetites, and strategic preferences. Whether you're a short-term scalper or a long-term swing trader, FTMO has a setup that fits.

4.1.1. Normal account 

This is FTMO’s default account and best suited for traders who prioritize capital preservation and steady growth. It features:

  • Profit target: 10% in the Challenge, 5% in the Verification
  • Daily loss limit: 5%
  • Maximum loss: 10%
  • Leverage: Up to 1:100

With its moderate parameters, the Standard account is ideal for disciplined traders using conservative or mid-risk strategies.

4.1.2. Swing account 

The Swing account is tailored for traders who hold positions overnight, across weekends, or during major economic events, something not all prop firms allow.

  • Profit target: 10% in the Challenge, 5% in the Verification
  • Daily loss limit: 5%
  • Leverage: Reduced to 1:30 on forex pairs
  • No restrictions on holding trades during news or weekends

The lower leverage helps balance the extended exposure that swing traders naturally take on. This option is perfect for those who rely on broader market moves and longer timeframes.

Besides that before committing to a challenge, traders can also open a free demo account to test FTMO’s platform, trading conditions, and rule sets. It’s a helpful way to get familiar with the system, especially for those new to prop trading or evaluating different firms.

4.2. Account sizes

FTMO offers a range of account sizes, tailored to suit various trader profiles:

  • $10,000
  • $25,000
  • $50,000
  • $100,000
  • $200,000

Each account size comes with proportional profit targets, loss limits, and challenge fees. You choose your account size when registering for the FTMO Challenge. The larger the account, the higher the challenge fee, but also the higher your profit potential.

FTMO offers a range of account sizes, tailored to suit various trader profiles
FTMO offers a range of account sizes, tailored to suit various trader profiles

For example, with a $100,000 funded account, a 10% monthly return equates to $10,000 in gross profit, up to $9,000 of which could be yours.

4.3. Profit split & payout schedule

FTMO offers a profit-sharing model that aligns closely with professional trading expectations. Traders begin with an 80/20 split, you keep 80% of the profits, while FTMO takes 20%. This alone places FTMO among the more generous firms in the industry. For those who show consistency and discipline over time, the split can be upgraded to 90/10, offering a meaningful incentive to stay sharp and perform.

The payout system is fast, flexible, and designed with global accessibility in mind:

  • Payout cycle: Standard monthly payouts, but eligible traders can request an early payout after just 14 calendar days from their first trade, as long as the account is in profit and all rules are followed.
  • Payment methods: FTMO supports bank transfers, PayPal, Skrill, crypto (via Confirmo), and even card-based platforms like Apple Pay or Google Pay through Nuvei.
  • No payout fees: There are no withdrawal charges or minimum thresholds, a major plus for high-frequency and lower-capital traders alike.
  • Multiple currencies: Funded accounts are available in USD, EUR, GBP, or AUD, giving traders flexibility to avoid conversion costs.
  • Fast processing time: Most payouts are completed within 1–2 business days, ensuring traders aren’t left waiting for their money.

In short, FTMO’s system strikes a strong balance between reward and liquidity. The early payout feature adds agility, while the option to scale to 90% rewards real performance, not just passing a challenge. These are the kind of structural decisions that build trust and long-term commitment in the trading community.

“FTMO paid me the next day after I requested my first withdrawal. Everything was fast and professional.” — User testimonial via Trustpilot (FTMO review trustpilot)

FTMO supports a wide variety of secure payment methods for both challenge fees and payouts
FTMO supports a wide variety of secure payment methods for both challenge fees and payouts

Verdict on profit split & payout system

FTMO’s payout system reflects a clear understanding of what committed traders value: high reward for performance, minimal administrative delays, and freedom to access profits on their own terms. The early payout feature is particularly valuable; it bridges the gap between performance and reward in a timely manner, which many firms overlook. 

4.4. Scaling plan: How to grow your account

For traders who perform consistently, FTMO offers a Scaling plan that can increase your account balance over time.

To qualify for scaling:

  • You must generate at least 10% profit over 4 consecutive months
  • You must not violate any trading rules
  • You must trade a minimum of 10 trading days each month

If you meet the criteria, FTMO will increase your account size by 25% and gradually raise your maximum allowed drawdown. You can scale your account up to $2 million, which is among the highest in the industry.

This scaling system rewards discipline and long-term thinking, qualities FTMO values in their traders.

Verdict on funded account types & profit sharing

FTMO strikes a strong balance between flexibility and structure. The availability of normal, and swing accounts allows traders to align their trading style with the right risk profile. The payout system is fast, with profit splits reaching up to 90%, and the scaling plan rewards consistency. Overall, it's a solid setup for traders aiming to grow within a professional framework.

5. FTMO costs and fees

One of the most common concerns among aspiring FTMO traders is cost. “Is it expensive to join FTMO?” and “Are there any hidden fees?” are questions that often come up in any honest FTMO review.

Fortunately, FTMO’s pricing is transparent, one-time, and refundable, which is a strong advantage compared to other prop firms.

5.1. Challenge fees by capital

To access the FTMO Challenge, traders pay a one-time evaluation fee, which grants them entry into the two-step assessment process (Challenge and Verification). The cost varies depending on the account size and the type of account you select. As of 2025, FTMO’s official pricing is as follows:

Account Size Fee (EUR) Fee (USD – approx.)
$10,000 €155 ~$170
$25,000 €250 ~$275
$50,000 €345 ~$375
$100,000 €540 ~$590
$200,000 €1,080 ~$1,175

These prices include both the Challenge and Verification stages; there are no additional payments required to proceed after passing the first phase.

Note: FTMO occasionally offers discounts or promotional vouchers. Keep an eye on their newsletter and social media updates.

You can also try their Free Trial, which simulates the Challenge environment without any fees. It’s a smart way to test your readiness before committing real money.

5.2. Fee refunded after the first profit split

What sets FTMO apart from most prop firms is its refund policy.

If you pass the FTMO Challenge and Verification and then earn at least one payout from your funded account, FTMO will refund your original fee in full, alongside your first profit split.

For example:

  • You choose a $100,000 Challenge for €540
  • You pass both phases
  • You earn $6,000 in your first funded month
  • You receive $4,800 (80%) + your €540 refund

This refund policy shows FTMO’s long-term vision: they’re invested in supporting consistent, successful traders, not profiting off evaluation fees alone.

5.3. Payment methods: Card, bank, PayPal, crypto

FTMO supports a wide variety of secure payment methods for both challenge fees and payouts:

  • Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard)
  • Bank Transfer (SEPA and SWIFT)
  • PayPal
  • Skrill
  • Cryptocurrency (via crypto payment gateway)

All transactions are encrypted and processed through reputable payment partners. From our FTMO Academy review and user feedback, most payments are confirmed within a few hours to 1 business day.

5.4. No hidden monthly or withdrawal fees

Another highlight of FTMO’s pricing model: there are no recurring monthly fees, no platform fees, and no withdrawal charges.

  • You don’t pay anything while managing a funded account
  • You’re not charged for inactivity
  • You’re free to keep trading or stop at any time

This “no pressure” approach makes FTMO especially attractive for part-time or swing traders who may not want daily obligations.

Verdict on FTMO’s costs and fees

FTMO offers one of the fairest and beginner-friendly pricing models in the prop trading space. With a one-time, refundable fee structure, no recurring costs, and zero hidden charges, traders can focus purely on performance. The refund after your first payout reinforces FTMO’s commitment to long-term trader success, not short-term profit from evaluation fees. For those seeking transparency and strong value, FTMO is a top-tier choice.

6. Spreads and commission fees

FTMO stands out by offering professional-grade trading conditions through direct market access (DMA). Unlike many prop firms that rely on third-party retail brokers, FTMO collaborates with top-tier liquidity providers. This setup allows traders to experience RAW spreads and faster execution speeds, similar to institutional-level trading environments.

6.1. Spreads

The spreads on FTMO accounts are highly competitive and reflect real-market conditions. As of 2025, typical spreads include:

Currency Pair Average Spread
EUR/USD 0.22 pips
GBP/USD 0.65 pips
USD/JPY 0.27 pips

These tight spreads are available across demo, evaluation, and funded accounts, providing consistency from start to finish.

6.2. Commission fees

While FTMO offers RAW spreads, they do not absorb commission fees, which some other prop firms do. Traders are responsible for standard commissions based on asset class:

  • Forex: $3 per standard lot per round trip
  • Metals: 0.0010% of the traded volume
  • Equities: 0.0040% of the traded volume

These costs are typical for DMA environments and align with institutional trading setups. However, they are important to factor into your strategy especially if you are a high-frequency or scalping trader.

Verdict on spreads and commission fees

FTMO provides institutional-level trading conditions with transparent and competitive costs. The RAW spreads are among the lowest in the industry, and while commissions are passed to traders, they are consistent with what you'd expect from direct market access (DMA) providers. 

For traders who value real-market execution and are comfortable managing standard commission costs, FTMO delivers excellent value with no hidden pricing surprises.

7. Trading platforms, instruments & conditions

FTMO offers access to a wide range of platforms, instruments, and trading conditions that suit most trading styles, from scalping to swing trading.

7.1. Platforms

You can choose from:

  • MT4 and MT5 – popular for forex and automated strategies
  • cTrader – modern interface, great for manual traders
  • DXtrade – browser-based, no installation required

All platforms support Expert Advisors (EAs), mobile trading, and advanced order tools. FTMO encourages traders to select the platform that fits their workflow best.

7.2. Instruments

FTMO accounts offer access to:

  • Forex: major, minor, exotic pairs
  • Commodities: gold, silver, oil
  • Indices: US30, NAS100, DE40, etc.
  • Crypto: BTC, ETH, and more (depending on broker)

This range supports various strategies, including correlation and news trading.

7.3. Leverage & trading restrictions

Standard leverage is:

  • 1:100 for forex
  • 1:50 or lower for other assets

FTMO applies certain restrictions (especially on Classic Accounts):

  • No trading during major news events
  • No overnight or weekend holding unless using a Swing Account (with lower leverage)

If you need flexibility, opt for the Swing Account during registration.

Verdict on trading platforms, instruments & conditions

FTMO delivers a robust infrastructure suitable for both discretionary and algorithmic traders. The diverse platform choices (MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade) and broad asset coverage allow for versatile strategy deployment. 

Although trading restrictions apply to certain account types, the availability of the Swing Account ensures flexibility for news and overnight positions. Overall, the trading environment is professional, transparent, and adaptable.

8. FTMO tools & resources for traders

FTMO isn’t just a funding platform. It provides powerful tools to help traders improve performance and discipline.

FTMO goes beyond funding by offering one of the most supportive ecosystems
FTMO goes beyond funding by offering one of the most supportive ecosystems

8.1. FTMO MetriX

MetriX is FTMO’s analytics dashboard showing:

  • Profit/loss breakdowns
  • Risk-to-reward ratios
  • Breach alerts
  • Equity curve tracking

Personally, I used MetriX daily, and it helped me identify bad habits and reduce overtrading.

8.2. Calendar & news feed

Real-time economic calendar and market news help you stay prepared for events like:

  • NFP
  • FOMC decisions
  • CPI, interest rates

You’ll receive alerts if certain trades are restricted due to news timing.

8.3. Journal & performance coach

FTMO provides a structured trading journal and access to a certified performance coach who helps with:

  • Stress control
  • Trading discipline
  • Psychological recovery after losses

This level of trader support is rare among prop firms.

8.4. FTMO mobile app

Available on iOS and Android, the app lets you:

  • Track your evaluation status
  • Get MetriX updates
  • Request payouts
  • Receive breach notifications

It’s a handy tool for trading on the go.

8.5. Custom indicators

FTMO offers free MetaTrader indicators:

  • Real-time account rule overlay
  • News-event alerts
  • Equity tracking tools
  • Position sizing calculator

These are especially useful during the Challenge phase to avoid rule violations.

Verdict on FTMO tools & resources for traders

FTMO stands out for its trader support ecosystem. Tools like MetriX, the trading journal, economic calendar, and mobile app are built to enhance risk awareness and performance consistency. Combined with access to a performance coach and custom indicators, these resources go beyond evaluation, they help cultivate long-term trading discipline.

9. How to pass FTMO prop challenge

I’ve been through the FTMO evaluation myself and passed it, so I know firsthand what it takes. FTMO doesn’t just reward big profits. They’re looking for consistency, discipline, and a deep respect for risk management. Here’s exactly how the two-phase challenge works, and what I did to navigate it successfully.

9.1. Phase 1: FTMO Challenge

This is your first test. You have up to 30 calendar days to meet a profit target while staying within strict drawdown rules. 

  • Profit Target: 10%
  • Daily Loss Limit: 5%
  • Max Loss Limit: 10%

I personally chose the Standard account because it offered a more balanced approach, reasonable targets, and manageable risk. FTMO requires a minimum of 4 trading days, so don’t try to pass it in one lucky trade. Spread your strategy out, trade with intention, and log clean performance.

9.2. Phase 2: Verification

If you complete the Challenge, you’ll move to the Verification phase, which is easier in terms of objectives but still demands precision. Risk limits stay the same, but here’s where many traders slip: they relax after Phase 1. Don’t. I treated this as another challenge, not a victory lap. My strategy remained unchanged: trade less, wait more, protect the downside.

One key piece I had to internalize was how FTMO calculates drawdown dynamically. Your 5% daily loss is based on your current balance, including floating PnL. So if you’re in a drawdown and leave trades open overnight, it could violate the limit even without hitting stop-loss. I always calculate these numbers before every session and monitor floating losses closely.

And here’s a great feature: FTMO doesn’t require stop-losses or limit your lot sizes. But that freedom can be a trap if you’re not careful. Use it wisely, because once you breach a rule, that account is gone.

Key tips from my experience

  • Don’t focus on hitting 10% right away. Focus on not losing 5% first. Survival matters more than speed.
  • Use dynamic risk: Remember that loss limits scale with your balance. If you’re up 2%, your max loss limit increases, which gives you breathing room.
  • Forget about oversized lots. FTMO doesn’t limit position size, but that’s not a green light to over-leverage. Keep risk per trade consistent, I never risked more than 0.5% per setup.
  • Don’t overtrade to meet minimum days. Even one micro-lot counts. I once placed a small trade on a slow day just to tick the box.

Verdict on the FTMO Challenge

Passing FTMO isn't about being perfect; it's about being consistent, controlled, and understanding exactly what they’re looking for. In my experience, the traders who succeed are the ones who trade within limits, adapt quickly, and approach this challenge like a professional business, not a gamble.

If you can follow a plan, respect risk, and stay patient, the FTMO Challenge becomes a process, not a hurdle. And once you’re funded, that mindset will be what sustains you.

10. Firm rules of FTMO

After testing various FTMO account types myself, Normal, and Swing, I’ve learned that understanding their rules can make or break your evaluation. FTMO offers decent flexibility, but some firm restrictions are easy to overlook. Here's what you can and cannot do:

Allowed rules:

  • No mandatory stop loss: You aren’t required to use a stop loss, even in the Challenge, Verification, or funded stages. This suits traders who manage risk dynamically or manually.
  • Lot size flexibility: FTMO doesn’t cap your lot size. You’re free to scale positions according to your risk appetite, though you must stay within drawdown limits.
  • Hold trades overnight/news (Swing Account only): With the Swing Account, you can leave trades open over the weekend or during high-impact news releases, ideal for position traders.
  • Trade during news on non-affected pairs: On Normal accounts, you can trade during news events, as long as your positions don’t involve the impacted currency.
  • No minimum trading days: FTMO removed the requirement for minimum trading days, making it easier to pass the evaluation quickly if your setup aligns.

 Prohibited rules:

  • No trading 2 mins before/after news (Normal account): You must not open/close trades on affected assets two minutes before or after major economic events.
  • No weekend trades (Standard): Trades must be closed by Friday if the market closes for over two hours. Keeping trades over the weekend violates your account terms.
  • No trading during market breaks: Positions should be closed before scheduled breaks longer than two hours, like public holidays or early closings.
  • Exceeding drawdown limits: FTMO’s dynamic risk model means your daily and max loss limits move with your account equity. Violating these, whether through closed trades or floating losses, results in failure.
  • No martingale or grid strategies: While not enforced by software, these styles are often flagged during account reviews and can lead to disqualification if detected.

Verdict on firm rules of FTMO

In my experience, FTMO’s rulebook strikes a fair balance between discipline and freedom. I appreciate that they don’t micromanage position size or stop losses, it puts accountability in your hands. But you must be meticulous with timing, especially around news and weekends. One careless trade on a Friday afternoon could cost you the entire account.

11. Customer service and education

FTMO goes beyond funding by offering one of the most supportive ecosystems in the prop trading industry. Whether you’re a beginner seeking clarity or a funded trader looking to stay sharp, FTMO provides robust customer service and a well-structured educational system tailored for traders at every level.

11.1. Multilingual customer support

One of FTMO’s key strengths is its highly responsive and inclusive customer support system. Traders can reach out 24/7 via multiple channels: live chat, email, phone, and even WhatsApp. The live chat feature connects users directly to a human representative (not a bot), often within minutes.

What truly sets FTMO apart is its support for over 18 languages, including many underserved ones like Swahili, Serbian, and Tagalog. This focus on global accessibility ensures that traders from non-English-speaking countries receive the same level of clarity and care as anyone else.

Supported languages include (but are not limited to):

English Arabic Vietnamese
French German Spanish
Czech Japanese Turkish
Portuguese Russian Ukrainian
Swahili Hebrew Polish
Tagalog Italian Serbian

From our own testing, the support team was quick, accurate, and professional in answering both technical and policy-related questions. Although the Help Center is comprehensive, the search tool could be improved for better usability.

11.2. High-quality educational resources

FTMO also provides an impressive range of free educational tools and learning materials. These are designed not only to help traders pass the evaluation but also to improve their skills long-term.

Video Academy

Their Trading Academy is divided into three main categories:

  • Beginner essentials
  • Platform tutorials (MT4, MT5, cTrader)
  • Advanced trading tips

All videos are publicly available on YouTube, no account or payment required. These resources cover trading psychology, market analysis, money management, and even behind-the-scenes insight through interviews with funded traders, which many find motivational and relatable.

11.3. Blog and written guides

Beyond video, FTMO runs an active blog that covers:

  • Trading psychology
  • Strategy breakdowns
  • Real trader Q&As
  • Updates from the FTMO team

This content helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving traders perspectives from others who have already gone through the evaluation process.

11.4. Proprietary apps and performance tools

FTMO enhances the trader experience further through a suite of in-house tools and mobile apps:

  • Account metriX: Tracks your progress and evaluates performance against funding objectives
  • Account analysis app: Breaks down stats like win rate, profit factor, and average trade size
  • Statistical app: Highlights trending pairs, ranging markets, and price movers
  • Mentor app: Connects to MT4/MT5/cTrader and alerts you in real-time when you breach your trading rules
  • Equity simulator: Lets you simulate long-term outcomes based on your RRR, risk %, and win rate

These tools are fully integrated within the FTMO trader portal and are available throughout both the evaluation and funded phases.

11.5. Performance coaching

For funded traders, FTMO also offers access to performance coaches, professionals with psychology backgrounds who can help optimize your mindset, boost confidence, and strengthen discipline. This is an underrated feature that shows FTMO’s commitment to nurturing long-term trader development, not just short-term profitability.

Verdict on FTMO customer service and education

Having interacted with dozens of prop firms over the years, I can confidently say that FTMO sets a high standard in both customer service and trader education. Their customer support is responsive, multilingual, and typically replies within a few hours via email or live chat, even during peak periods. For a global firm with traders across time zones, this level of accessibility is commendable.

From a seasoned perspective, FTMO doesn’t just want traders to pass a challenge; they want them to develop into consistent, disciplined professionals. This focus on long-term success, not just short-term metrics, is rare in the prop firm landscape.

12. How to sign up with FTMO

Getting started with FTMO is straightforward, but there are a few strategic decisions to make along the way that can impact your trading experience. If you're serious about passing the Challenge and scaling your funded account, it’s worth understanding each step in detail.

Step 1: Create your FTMO profile 

First, go to ftmo.com and register. You’ll need to fill in basic personal details (name, email, country) and complete a quick email verification. This gives you access to the FTMO dashboard.

First, go to ftmo.com and register, and fill in basic personal details
First, go to ftmo.com and register, and fill in basic personal details

Step 2: Select your preferred account currency

You can choose from several base currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, and CZK. I usually pick USD for simplicity with global broker platforms, but EUR is great if you’re trading from Europe.

Getting started with FTMO is straightforward that can impact your trading experience
Getting started with FTMO is straightforward that can impact your trading experience

Step 3: Decide on your risk mode
FTMO offers two account types:

  • Normal: Balanced drawdown and targets, best for consistent strategies.
  • Swing: Higher drawdown allowance but higher targets.

If you're just starting, I strongly recommend the Normal mode. It aligns better with disciplined risk management, especially if you're still mastering emotional control.

Step 4: Choose your audition capital

Your Challenge fee and eventual funded account size depend on the starting capital you choose. Options range from $10,000 to $200,000. I started with a $50K account to keep the pressure reasonable without compromising profit potential.

Step 5: Pick your platform

FTMO supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, DX Trade, and cTrader. If you’re already familiar with one, stick to it. For me, MT5 offers cleaner execution and more depth of data, but MT4 still works great for most retail traders.

Step 6: Enter your billing and payment information

Provide your billing address and choose a payment method: Visa, Mastercard, bank transfer, Skrill, or crypto (like BTC or USDT). FTMO is fast, I usually get account credentials within 24 hours of payment.

Personal insight: What to consider before signing up

  • Start with a free trial: FTMO offers a free 14-day demo that simulates the real Challenge environment. I always suggest traders use this to get a feel for rules and pressure before committing real money.
  • Understand the evaluation rules: Before you hit “pay,” be sure you fully understand FTMO’s trading objectives, maximum daily loss, and overall loss rules. A lack of clarity here is the top reason traders fail.
  • Match your strategy with account type: If you're a swing trader, FTMO’s Swing Account under Normal Risk mode is ideal, no need to worry about holding trades overnight or over weekends.

This upfront structure makes the onboarding smooth, especially if you’ve traded with other prop firms before. FTMO's flexibility across platforms, capital sizes, and risk profiles is a big reason why I continue to recommend them to new and intermediate traders alike.

13. FTMO vs. other prop firms

With the rise of proprietary trading opportunities, FTMO is no longer the only option on the market. New and experienced traders alike often compare FTMO to other firms, such as The5ers and Topstep, to decide where to begin.

This section provides a side-by-side comparison of FTMO and its main competitors based on key criteria.

Comparison Table: FTMO vs. The5ers vs. Topstep

Criteria FTMO The5ers Topstep
Evaluation model Two phases: Challenge (10%) + Verification (5%) Instant or evaluation-based funding Monthly subscription + evaluation
Profit target 10% (Step 1), 5% (Step 2) 6% – 10%, varies by plan ~6% per month
Profit split Starts at 80%, scales to 90% Typically 50% – 75% Up to 80%
Fee refund Yes, after first payout No No
Risk rules strictness Strict (5% daily / 10% total drawdown) Moderate Moderate
News/weekend trading Restricted on Classic account, allowed on Swing Allowed Varies by platform/rules
Platforms supported MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade MT4, MT5 Futures platforms (e.g., NinjaTrader)
Markets offered Forex, indices, commodities, crypto Forex, indices Futures only
Scaling plan Yes, up to $2M Yes, slower growth Yes, slower
Free trial/demo Yes, 14-day trial available No No
Reputation/transparency Very high – featured in Forbes, Deloitte Moderate, niche prop firm Established futures prop firm

14. FTMO Reviews from users

No prop firm is perfect. Here are some reviews from Trustpilot & Reddit.

Here are some examples of positive FTMO trading reviews:

Some examples of positive FTMO trading reviews
Some examples of positive FTMO trading reviews

Here are some examples of negative FTMO trading reviews:

Some examples of negative FTMO trading reviews
Some examples of negative FTMO trading reviews

15. FAQs

15.1. What happens if I fail the FTMO Challenge?

If you exceed the daily or maximum loss limits, your Challenge is automatically failed. However, FTMO often offers a discounted retry or new Challenge at full price. You can also use the Free Trial to re-practice before trying again.

15.2. Can I get my Challenge fee back?

Yes. If you pass both the Challenge and Verification stages and receive your first funded account payout, FTMO will refund the full Challenge fee.

15.3. How do I receive payouts?

Once you become a funded FTMO Trader, you can request a monthly payout (or after 14 trading days if conditions are met). Payouts are typically processed within one business day via bank transfer, PayPal, Skrill, or crypto (depending on region).

15.4. Is FTMO regulated?

FTMO is not a broker and does not manage client funds, so it's not subject to financial regulatory frameworks like brokers are. However, FTMO is a registered company in the Czech Republic, has passed financial audits, and has been recognized by Forbes, EY, and Deloitte for its transparency and business success.

15.5. Can I hold trades overnight or over the weekend?

Yes, if you choose the Swing Account during registration. The Classic Account does not allow holding trades over weekends or during high-impact news events.

15.6. How long does it take to get funded?

It depends on your performance. The minimum time is:

  • 4 trading days for Challenge
  • 4 trading days for Verification
    If passed on the first try, you can become funded in as little as 8 active trading days (not including weekends or waiting periods).

15.7. Can I automate trades or use Expert Advisors?

Yes. FTMO allows EAs (Expert Advisors) on MT4 and MT5, as long as they don’t exploit technical flaws or latency arbitrage. Always test automation during the Free Trial first.

16. Conclusion

In this detailed FTMO review, I've covered everything from platform features to payout speed. 

FTMO remains one of the most respected and well-structured proprietary trading firms in the world. With over €160 million in payouts, transparent rules, free advanced trading tools, and up to 90% profit sharing, it’s easy to see why so many traders choose FTMO to scale their careers.

Its strict rules and two-phase evaluation can be a challenge but they also serve as a valuable filter to find consistent, disciplined traders.

If you are serious about trading, willing to follow risk management rules, and want to scale your income without risking personal capital, FTMO is absolutely worth considering.

For more prop firms review, explore our Prop Firms Review at H2T Funding.

Ngan Pham

Content Creator

I’m a content creator with 3+ years of experience in financial writing. I specialize in budgeting, trading platforms, and digital financial tools to empower smarter money decisions.

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